BIOS Memory Simulation Module for ROM-Free Testing

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Solution Overview

Problem

BIOS developers face the challenge of frequently detaching and updating BIOS ROMs, which can lead to damage and is time-consuming, requiring over 1.5 minutes.

Innovation Solution

A BIOS memory simulation module with a first transmission interface for receiving updated BIOS data, a second transmission interface connected to the computer under test, a memory unit, and a control unit that stores and outputs the data, allowing for BIOS testing without detaching the ROM and reducing update time.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Reliability

If BIOS data is updated by detaching and rewriting the BIOS ROM, then the BIOS can be updated, but the frequent detachment causes damage to the BIOS ROM and increases the update time to about 1.5 minutes

Engineering Contradiction:

ImproveBIOS ROM durabilityVSAvoidBIOS update time

Core Design Contradiction:

ReliabilityVSLoss of time

Solution Approach 1:

The patent introduces a BIOS simulation module as an intermediary device between the computer and the BIOS ROM. This module includes a control unit and a memory unit that can simulate BIOS ROM functions without requiring physical detachment of the actual BIOS ROM from the main board, thereby preventing damage while enabling frequent updates

Inventive Principle:

Principle #24Intermediary (Mediator)

Solution Approach 2:

The BIOS simulation module creates a functional copy of the BIOS ROM in the memory unit. The control unit reads BIOS data from external storage and loads it into the memory unit, which then provides BIOS services to the computer, effectively copying the BIOS ROM's functionality without physically manipulating the original BIOS ROM chip

Inventive Principle:

Principle #26Copying

2Adaptability or versatility

If BIOS data is updated by detaching the BIOS ROM, then the BIOS can be updated, but the process takes about 1.5 minutes which is time-consuming for frequent BIOS testing

Engineering Contradiction:

ImproveBIOS testing flexibilityVSAvoidBIOS update time

Core Design Contradiction:

Adaptability or versatilityVSLoss of time

Solution Approach 1:

The BIOS simulation module serves as a mediator that handles all BIOS update operations externally. The control unit manages data transfer between external storage and the memory unit, allowing BIOS updates to occur without interrupting the computer's operation or requiring physical manipulation of the BIOS ROM

Inventive Principle:

Principle #24Intermediary (Mediator)

Solution Approach 2:

The control unit pre-loads BIOS data into the memory unit before it is needed by the computer. This preliminary action allows the BIOS simulation module to respond immediately to BIOS requests without requiring real-time detachment or updating of the physical BIOS ROM during testing operations

Inventive Principle:

Principle #10Preliminary action

Data Source

PatentUS7895429B2Basic input/output system memory simulation module

Publication Date: 2011.02.22 MICRO STAR INTERNATIONAL CO LTD

AI summary

A basic input/output system (BIOS) memory simulation module includes a first transmission interface unit adapted to receive an updated BIOS data from an external source, a second transmission interface unit adapted to be connected electrically to a computer under test, a memory unit, and a control unit connected electrically to the first transmission interface unit, the second transmission interface unit and the memory unit. The control unit is operable to store the updated BIOS data from the first transmission interface unit into the memory unit, and to output the updated BIOS data stored in the memory unit to the computer under test via the second transmission interface unit.